Update on Incident at 13413 Duluth

August 28, 2006 -- Houston police have learned that the fatal shooting of Arlene Avalos, 8, and Alma Avalos, 26, at 13413 Duluth, has been ruled a murder-suicide. The Harris County Medical Examiner's office conducted an autopsy and determined that Alma Avalos shot and killed her daughter, Arlene Avalos, then shot herself.

Investigators found several letters written by Alma Avalos at the residence indicating she was depressed and suicidal. She purchased the weapon two days prior to the shooting. The box for the weapon and ammunition were also recovered at the residence.

HPD Homicide Division Sergeant L.A. Flores and Officer E.R. Carstens reported:

Officers responded to a shooting at the above location, where constables from Precinct 3 were already at the location. Arlene and Alma Avalos were found deceased in a front bedroom of the residence. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots earlier in the day, however did not see anyone leaving the area.

UPDATE: GO/MES 8-28-06
GO/NJM 8-25-06
Inc #131386206

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division a 713-308-3200.